The Aucilla River Prehistory Project will deeply miss its wonderful
friend and supporter, Wilmer W. Bassett, Jr., who passed away at the age
of 81 on December 6, 1996. Born in Monticello and educated at the University
of Florida, Wilmer was a leader in Florida Agriculture. He received many
honors including the Bronze Star for his service as lieutenant colonel
in artillery in World War II, induction into the Florida Dairy Hall of
Fame, and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Florida.

With regard to the Aucilla River Prehistory Project, Wilmer provided
the river cabin and other valuable funding. That cabin made all the difference
in the project's effectiveness, for it allowed us not only to produce better
meals but also to hold substantial educational activities in the evenings.

Much to our delight, Wilmer
himself played an active role in many ARPP activities. As an educator who
had spent his life observing Florida natural history, Wilmer took an intense
interest in the project's scientific endeavors and also showed genuine
concern for the progress of its students. On his weekly trip through north
Florida, he almost always spent an evening or two with our group, and this
was always a big morale booster. It was also literally a "treat,"
because he insisted on providing three freshly baked pies. Aucilla River
participants will long remember his "Dooby" pies, which uniquely
provided enough calories to carry on the next day's dive.

Wilmer also led project members to garner support in legislative offices,
and introduced them to civic organizations in Monticello, Gainesville and
Tallahassee.

The ARPP and its readership wish to convey our love and support to his
wife, Melda, his son, "Bill," his daughters Lucy, Mary and Carolyn,
and to their families.

An outstanding naturalist, educator and businessman, Wilmer Bassett
provided outstanding leadership to the ARPP, which we will never forget.